Best Car Accident Lawyers in Martinez, CA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Martinez, California?

  (925) 372-3440 is the non-emergency contact number for the Martinez Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Martinez, California?

  Copies of police reports for car accidents in Martinez can be obtained from the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Records and ID Unit. The unit houses, retrieves, and manages official police reports, warrants, and county-wide restraining orders for the county's unincorporated areas and Sheriff's contract cities.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Martinez?

  A report by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) mentioned drunk driving, hit-and-run, and speeding as the major causes of car crashes in Martinez. The report also cited a total of 68 fatal crashes in the city that resulted in injuries. The OTS provides data on traffic safety research and motor vehicle collisions.

• What are the chances of a car accident causing significant harm and damage in Martinez?

  There is a high chance that a car accident in Martinez would result in significant harm and damage because commuters take State Route 4 and Interstate 680 to get to work and school. The city is located in the San Francisco Bay Area and has a population of more than 38,200 people. With so many drivers on the road, there is an increased risk of motor vehicle collisions, which can cause significant harm and damage.

• How does using computer programs to evaluate physical injury claims affect the amount of compensation awarded to Martinez car accident victims?

  Insurance companies can set artificial intelligence software programs, including Colossus, to intentionally underpay claims by 12% to 20%. The injuries that Colossus does not evaluate are given to an adjuster for assessment. The other claims evaluation software programs built on the Colossus model used by insurers to assess claims are ClaimIQ and Claims Outcome Advisor.

• What is the minimum auto insurance coverage required in Martinez?

  Martinez adheres to the state of California's minimum coverage requirements, which are $15,000 for bodily injury or death to one party, $30,000 for bodily injury or death to more than one individual, and $5,000 for property damage. The goal of state minimum liability coverage is to ensure that drivers meet the legal requirements for operating motor vehicles on public roads. It also makes sure that drivers have the ability to pay for damages when they are found to be at fault in a traffic accident.

• What is the deadline for filing personal injury claims in Martinez?

  The California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1 specifies a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases in Martinez. If a car accident involves a government entity, the time limit for filing personal injury claims may be reduced to as little as six months. An injured victim who fails to bring a claim within these timeframes can no longer pursue legal action.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.